Three people who drowned after getting into difficulty while paddleboarding in Wales have been named by police as their family and friends pay tribute.
The man and two women who died were Morgan Rogers, 24, from Cefn Coed near Merthyr Tydfil; Nicola Wheatley, 40, from Swansea; and Paul O’Dwyer, 42, from Port Talbot.
Tragedy struck when a group of nine paddleboarders, who were on an organised weekend away, got into difficulty near a weir on the River Cleddau in Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire on Saturday morning.
The three drowned after reportedly being swept away when the river became swollen by heavy rain.
Former soldier and father-of-three Paul O’Dwyer, 42, who worked at surf-style clothing and paddleboarding company Salty Dog Co based in Port Talbot, has been named as one of the victims.
His family described him as ‘devoted husband, father, son and brother’ who ‘gave his life to save others’.
He is reported to have tried to help the two women after the group got into difficulty at the weir near Quay Street.
One of those on the trip, Vickie Mckinven from Milford Haven, said he died attempting to rescue two fellow paddleboarders.
Paul’s loved ones said in a statement released via police: ‘He devoted his life to contributing to society in his many adventures in raising money for different causes.’
Mr O’Dywer’s family described him as a ‘water baby’ whose passion for water started at an early age.
They said: ‘His sporting prowess extended to many different sports.
‘He was an army surfing champion, British Army 7 aside rugby team member, Aberavon Green stars rugby player, ski instructor and completed multiple times in British and Welsh 3 peak events.
‘His tick list also included the London Marathon, running a 100 mile race, numerous triathlons including Ironman Wales and recently Stand Up Paddle boarding 100 miles in 21 hours to raise money for heart screening in Port Talbot.
‘Paul also helped to set up a charity Sa1ute to support veterans.
‘We as a family are truly thankful for the kind messages sent to us in our time of great sadness.’
The family of Nicola Wheatley described her as ‘amazing in every way’.
They said ‘We are devastated by our loss. Nicola was a loving mother, daughter, daughter-in-law and wife.
‘Nicola was a beautiful, caring, considerate and funny person. She was amazing in every way. She has left a void in our lives that will never be filled.’
Ms Wheatley worked as a specialist in poisons information with the National Poisons Information Service (NPIS) in Cardiff.
Her colleagues said she would be ‘remembered for her calm, friendly and totally professional manner – even when faced with the most difficult of cases.’
They added: ‘Through her lovely personality, Nikki made many friends during her time in public service and will be sorely missed by her friends and colleagues at the NPIS.
‘Nikki leaves her young family, husband and extended family. Our thoughts are with them at this terrible time.’
The family of Morgan Rogers said she ‘was the best that she could be’.
They said: ‘She will be sadly missed by her mother, father, Rhys, Harry, Holly and Katy.’
First Minister Mark Drakeford tweeted: ‘Deeply saddened to hear of the deaths on the River Cleddau in Haverfordwest.
‘My thoughts are with the families and friends who have lost loved ones in this heartbreaking tragedy.
‘Thank you to the emergency services and everyone who tried to assist with the rescue efforts.’
Emergency services were scrambled shortly after 9am on October 30, following reports a group had got into difficulty.
A huge search and rescue operation was launched, involving dozens of firefighters, police officers and medics.
Three people drowned while another woman was rushed to hospital, where she remains in critical condition.
Five other paddleboarders were rescued from the water, but were not injured.
A member of the public was also believed to have entered the water to attempt a rescue, and later left the water safely.
Police are continuing with their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident and are appealing for anyone with any information to come forward.
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